A Viking Market Kingdom in Ireland and Britain: Trade Networks and the Importation of a Southern Scandinavian Silver Bullion Economy

The political and economic character of Viking-Age Britain and Ireland is best understood if Dublin and Jórvík are seen as being established as nodes of a market-based network kingdom. This book argues that war-band leaders from or familiar with 'Danish markets like Hedeby and Kaupang transposed to Insular Scandinavia the concept of polities based on establishment of markets and the protection of routeways between them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The political and economic character of Viking-Age Britain and Ireland, often referred to as "Insular Scandinavia," is best understood when Dublin and Jórvík are considered as established nodes of a market-based network kingdom. This argument is supported by a dataset that sheds light on the emerging bullion economies of central and eastern Scandinavian regions, particularly southern Scandinavia. It suggests that war-band leaders from or familiar with "Danish markets like Hedeby and Kaupang" brought the concept of polities based on market establishment and the protection of trade routes to Insular Scandinavia.

This book offers readers a unique perspective on the creation of an Insular version of a Danish-style nodal market kingdom. It explores how interlinked Dublin and Great Army elites established a network kingdom that was characterized by commerce and the use of silver currencies. By examining the connections between southern Scandinavia and the market economy of the Uí Ímair, this book provides valuable insights into the complex social, political, and economic dynamics of Viking-Age Britain and Ireland.

The establishment of Hiberno-Scandinavian longphuirt and the related winter-camps of the Viking Great Army played a crucial role in connecting these regions and facilitating trade and commerce. These camps served as hubs for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences, contributing to the development of a vibrant and interconnected society. The alliance between Blomkvists network-kingdoms and Sindbæks nodal market-networks further solidified the economic and political dominance of the Viking Age in these regions.

In conclusion, this book offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the Viking Market Kingdom in Ireland and Britain. By examining the connections between southern Scandinavia, the Uí Ímair, and the market economy of the Viking Age, it sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of this period. It will be of great interest to specialist researchers and students of Viking archaeology, as well as anyone with an interest in medieval history and cultural exchange.

Weight: 704g
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367357849